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ENROLL IN THE SABBATH SCHOOL

You are not a member of the Sabbath school unless your

name is enrolled. There are persons who attend frequently,

but who, because their names are not recorded, can not be

counted, and so are aviong the "missing members."

Printed in U. S. A.

THE LIFE OF CHRIST

LESSON 1

FIVE PARABLES: THE MUSTARD SEED, THE

LEAVEN, THE TREASURE, THE PEARL,

THE FISH NET

July 4, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matt. 13: 31-35, 44-53.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURE: Mark 4: 30-34.

MEMORY VERSE: "So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall

come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just." Matt. 13: 49.

LESSON HELP: "Christ's Object Lessons," pp. 76-79, 95-134.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

Apparently the parables of this lesson were spoken by Jesus

immediately after the parables of the sower and of the wheat

and the tares. The parable of the mustard seed and that of the

leaven seem to have been given to the multitude who had gath-

ered by the shore of Galilee. Later the multitude was sent away,

and Jesus entered into a house. He there explained the parable

of the tares, and spoke the three other parables of the hidden

treasure, the pearl of great price, and the fisherman's net.

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of

the Lesson," and Matt. 13: 31-53. Drill on the

memory verse each day.

Study the parable of the mustard seed, using the senior lesson, or

paragraphs 1-3 of the primary lesson. Read selections from the Lesson

Help, pp. 76-79.

Study Questions 4-6, and Notes

1-4. Read selections from

the Lesson

Help, pp. 95-102.

Study the

parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price.

using Questions 7, 8, children reading paragraphs 4-7 of the primary

lesson. Read selections from the Lesson Help, pp. 103-121.

Study Questions 9-13, and Note 5, children reading paragraphs 8-10

of the primary lesson. Read selections from the Lesson Help, pp. 122-134.

Review a portion of the lesson by using questions

in senior, youth's,

junior, or primary lesson.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested for the

preceding study.

QUESTIONS

While teaching in parables by the seaside, to what did Jesus

liken the kingdom of heaven? Matt. 13 : 31.

How does the mustard seed compare in size with other seeds?

When the mustard plant is grown, how does it compare with

other herbs? Verse 32. Note I.

(

]

What lessons may we learn from this parable? Note 2.

In still another parable, to what did Jesus liken the kingdom

of heaven? Verse 33.

What lesson is illustrated by this parable? Note 3.

What effective means of instruction did Jesus freely use as

He taught the people? What scripture was He fulfilling by

this method of instruction? Verses 34, 35. Note 4.

By what parable does Jesus show how some appreciate the

value of salvation? How much was the finder willing to give

to own the treasure he had found? Verse 44.

By what other parable does Jesus show the exceeding value

of God's grace and salvation, and the importance of seeking

for it? Verses 45, 46.

g. What familiar object did Jesus use to teach the relationship

of the good and the evil to the kingdom of heaven? How

many kinds of fish were gathered in the net? Verse 47.

to. When the net was drawn to the shore, what disposition was

made of its contents? Verse 48.

II. To what particular event does the sorting of the fish refer?

Verses 49, 50.

12.

What question did Jesus ask His disciples after speaking these

parables? What was their reply? Verse 51.

13.

By what comparison did Jesus illustrate the work of the

Christian disciple? Verse 52. Note 5.

NOTES

I. It was proverbial among the Jews to employ the mustard

seed to denote anything very small, as Jesus did in this parable,

and in Matt. 17: zo and Luke i7: 6. The common mustard of

Palestine grows wild, attaining the height of a horse and rider,

as travelers have noticed.

2. From the parable of the mustard seed, we may learn several

lessons : that no matter how small a part of the Word may be

received (by word of mouth, a tract, or otherwise), it has in itself

power to work a great transformation in the life; that the working

of the Spirit on a man's heart may not be disconcernible to

others at first, even when he is sensible of it himself. We must

sow in faith, and God will give the increase.

We may learn also that the mighty works of God often

begin by the smallest means, that the glory may all be His.

Creation was accomplished by a word. The world's Redeemer

was cradled in a manger. The mighty preacher of Pentecost

was the humble fisherman of Galilee. The Reformation of the

sixteenth century began in the heart of a poor monk prostrated

upon the floor of his stone cell, seeking deliverance from his

sins. The work of the third angel's message began in the

home of a humble farmer in New England. What a lesson

[ 4 ]

for us all ! We need not make beginnings in God's work, it

seems, by large and expensive plans to make an impression upon

the world.` The small beginning and the mighty growth develop

the most sturdy. tree. And what encouragement also this parable

affords to the many faithful children of God who can do only

little things for the Master!

"Not only is the growth of Christ's kingdom illustrated by

the parable of the mustard seed, but in every stage of its growth

the experience represented in the parable is repeated. For His

churcb:in every generation God'has a special truth and a special

work. . . . And in this last generation the parable of the .mus-

tard seed is to reach a signal and triumphant fulfillment. The

little seed will become a tree. The last message of warning and

mercy is to go to `every nation and kindred and tongue,' 'to take

out of them a people for His name.'. And the earth shall be

lightened with His glory."—'-"Christ's

Object Lessons," pp. 78

;

79.

The lesson of the mustard seed is here repeated in a dif-

ferent form. The farmer may think upon the power of God's

word, as he sows the little seed, to come forth later as a tender

plant which, under his care and God's blessing, bears a hundred-

fold. The housekeeper may meditate upon the silent working

of the Spirit upon the indifferent heart, as she mixes the leaven

in her flour, and waits patiently for the rising of the dough till

she .can bake her bread and distribute it to the needy.

"Parable-teaching was popular, and commanded the respect

and attention, not only of the Jews, but of the people of other

nations. No more effective method of instruction could He

[Jesus] have employed. If His hearers had desired a knowledge

of divine things, they might have understood His words; for

He was always willing to explain them to the honest inquirer.

"Again, Christ had truths to present which the people were

unprepared to accept, or even to understand. For this reason

also He taught them in parables. By connecting His teaching

with the scenes of life, experience, or nature, He secured their

attehtion and impressed their hearts. Afterward, as they looked

upon the objects that illustrated His lessons, they recalled the

words of the divine Teacher."—"Christ's

Object Lessons," p.

2T.

"The treasure gained by the householder he does not hoard.

He brings it forth to communicate to others. And by use the

treasure increases. The householder has precious things both

new and old. So Christ teaches that the truth committed to

His disciples is to be communicated to the world. And as the

knowledge of truth is imparted, it will increase."—Id.;

P. l2.

"Let the Sabbath school lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance

at the lesson scripture on, Sabbath morning, but by careful study

for the next Week On 'Sabbath afternoon, with daily review or

illustration during the

week."—"Education," pp.

251, 252. •

15]

LESSON 2

JESUS STILLS THE TEMPEST;

'THE.

DEMONIACS OFGADARA

July 11, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Luke 8: 22-40.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 8: 23-34; Mark 4: 35 to 5: 2C.

MEMORY VERSE: "He commandeth even the winds and water, and

they obey Him."

Luke 8: 25.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 333-341.

PLACES: The Sea of Galilee; the country between the city of Gadara

and the lake.

PERSONS: Jesus and His disciples; two demoniacs ;. the keepers of the

swine; the people of Gadara.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

"All day He [Jesus] had been teaching and healing; and as

evening came on, the crowds still pressed upon Him. Day after

day He had ministered to them, scarcely pausing for food or rest.

The malicious criticism and misrepresentation with which the

Pharisees constantly pursued Him, made His labors much More

severe and harassing ; and now the close of the day found Him so

utterly wearied that He determined to seek retirement in some

solitary place across the lake.'!—"The

Desire of Ages," p. 333.

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of the Lesson," and Luke 8: 22-40. Drill on the

memory verse each day.

Study the story of Jesus stilling the tempest, by using Question's 1-4,

and Note 1, children reading paragraphs 1-7 of the primary lesson.

Locate the Sea of Galilee on the map. Review the portion studied,

by reading the Lesson

Help,

pp. 333-336, or by using senior or junior

questions.

Study Questions 5-17, and Notes 2-6, children reading paragraphs

8-12 of the primary lesson. Locate Gadara on the map.

Read selections from the Lesson Help, pp. 337-341. Let the two

stories in the lesson be told, by each member of the family contributing

a part.

Review a portion of the lesson by using questions in senior, youth's,

junior, or primary lesson.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested for the

preceding study.

QUESTIONS

What did Jesus suggest to His disciples on a certain day?

Luke 8:

22.

While He was making this journey, what shows the weariness

of Jesus? What occurred on the lake? What danger threat-

ened? Verse 23.

What help did the disciples seek? What did Jesus immediately

do? With what result? Verse 24. Note r.

4. Having stilled the wind and the sea, what rebuke did He give

to His disciples? How .did they express their amazement

among themselves? Verse 25.

5. When they reached the other shore, who met them? Verses

26, 27. Note

6. What did this madman do and say when he saw Jesus? Verse

28. Note 3.



7. What caused the evil spirit in the man to ci-y out thus? • To

what extent was the man under this evil control?. Verse

29.

Note

8. What question did Jesus address to the evil spirit? What

reply did he give? Verse 3o.

9. Knowing that they must depart from the man, what request

did the evil spirits make of Jesus? Verses 31, 32.

10.

This change being permitted, what did it cause the herd of

swine to do? Verse 33. Note 5.

L t. How did this demonstration affect those who were feeding the

' swine? Where did they go? Verse 34.

[2. How did the news of this miracle affect those who heard it?

Where did they find the man out of whom the evil spirits had

been driven? Verse 35.

13.

Compare his condition after the devils were departed with

that before his deliverance. Verses 27, 29, 35.

14.

What did eyewitnesses of the miracle tell those who came to

see the man? Verse 36.

5. What did the Gadarenes ask Christ to do? For what reasOn?

What response did Jesus make to their request? Verse 37.

r6. What did the man once possessed of devils desire to• do?

Verse 38.

17. What did Jesus tell him to do instead? What was the result?

Verse 39. Note 6.

NOTES

r. "When Jesus was awakened to meet the storm, He

was in

perfect peace. There was no trace of fear in word or look, for

no fear was in His heart. But He rested not in the possession of

almighty power. It was not as the 'Master of earth and sea

and sky' that He reposed in quiet. That power He had laid down,

and He says, 'I can of Mine. own self do nothing.' He trusted

in the Father's might. It was in faith-faith in God's love

and care-that Jesus rested, and the power of that word which

stilled the storm was the power of God. . .

"Sin has destroyed our peace. While self is unsubdued, we

can find no rest. The masterful passions of .the heart no human

power can control. We are as helpless here as were the disciples

to quiet, the raging storm. But He who spoke peace to the billoWs

of Galilee, has spoken the word of peace for every soul. However

I7]

fierce the tempest, those who turn

to Jesus with the cry, 'Lord,

save: us,'.•will • find deliverance. His grace, that reconciles the

soul to God, quiets the strife of human passion, and in His

love the heart is at rest."—"The

Desire of Ages,",pp. 335-337.

The account in Mark, like the ..one in Luke, mentions only

one man possessed with devils; but in Matthew, it is stated that

there were two men. One of them was doubtless more con-

spicuous than the other, and special attention is directed to him

by Mark and Luke, who give more of the details than does

Matthew.

In this lesson, we have' an example of Christ's mastery

over. the powers of darkness. Satan, the chief of devils, is

Apollyon, the destroyer. Rev. 9: it. Christ is "the Prince of

Peace." Isa. 9: 6. The devils, true to their nature, were tor-

menting the poor man—driving him to and fro like the waves

of the sea driven by the winds. Christ, true to His nature, spoke

peace, 'and the 'troubled soul had rest. What a perfect parallel

this miracle was to the stilling of the tempest! Let this word ever

be the joy of the tempted one: Christ is more 'powerful than

Satan, for He has "spoiled principalities and poWers.", "These

things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace.

In..the. world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer;

I have overcome the world." John 16:

33.

"With authority He bade the unclean spirits come out of

them. His words penetrated the darkened minds of the unfor-

tunate men. They realized dimly that One was near who could

save them from the tormenting demons. They fell at the Sav-

iour's feet to worship Him ; but when their lips were opened to

entreat His mercy, the demons spoke through them, crying

vehemently, 'What have I to do with Thee, Jesus. Thou Son of

God most high? I beseech Thee, torment me not.' Jesus asked.

'What is thy name?' And the answer was, 'My name is Legion ;

for we are many.' Using the afflicted men as mediums of com-

munication, they besought Jesus not to send them out of the

country."—"The

Desire of Ages," p. 338.

"The demons were permitted to sweep a herd of swine into

the sea • and to the dwellers of Gadara the loss. of these out-

weighed the blessings which Christ had bestowed, and the divine

Healer was entreated to depart. This was the result which

Satan designed to secure. By casting the blame of their loss

upon Jesus, he aroused the selfish fears of the people, and

prevented them from listening to His words. .



. But the

purPoses

of Christ were not thwarted. He allowed :the evil spirits

to,destroy the herd of swine as a rebuke to those Jews who were

raising these unclean beasts for the sake of gain.

'=•--"The Great

Controversy," p. 515.

t:..6.:The

man out of whom the devils were cast wanted to be

with-Jesus. That was a most natural desire; but Jesus said to

him,'MReturti to thine own house, and show 'how great things

Gody.hdth done unto thee." • God saves men for *service. "Ye

[ 8

are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for

God's own possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of

Him who called you out

of darkness into His marvelotts light."

I Peter

2 :

9, Revised Version. But, although the Lord sends: us

out to service, instead of allowing us now to dwell in His personal

presence, beholding His face, yet He does not leave us alone, for

He says, "Lo, I am with you alway." Matt. 28:

20.

LESSON 3

THE DAUGHTER OF JAIRUS; THE

AFFLICTED WOMAN

July 18, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE:

Mark 5: 21-43.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 9:

.8-26; Luke 8: 41-56.

MEMORY VERSE: "Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hatli:Made

thee whole." Matt. 9: 22.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 342-348.

PLACES: The seashore; the home of Jairus in Capernauni.

PERSONS: Jesus and His disciples; the multitude; hints and his

daughter:

the afflicted woman; hired mourners.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

"Returning, from Gergesa to the western shore, jesus found

a multitude gathered to receive Him, and they greeted'Hini with

joy. He remained by the seaside for a time, teaching and healing,

and then repaired to the house of Levi-Matthew. to meet the

publicans at the feast. Here Jairus, the ruler of

the

synageigue,

found

Him."—"The Desire of Ages," P. 342.



•

The afflicted woman had been pronounced incurable. "Her

hopes revived when she heard of the cures that. Christ performed.

She felt assured that if she could only go to. Him, she would be

healed. In weakness and suffering she came to the seaside where

He was teaching, and tried to press through the croWd, but in

vain. Again she- followed Him from the house of Levi-MattheW,

but was still unable to reach Him. She had begun to despair,

when, in making His way through the multitude,'He came'near

where she was."—Id.,

P. 343.

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read .the "Setting

of the Lesson." Read Mark 5:21-43..

;

Drill on

the memory verse each day.

Map Study: Locate Gadara, Sea of Galilee, and Capernaiirri: Study

Questions

1.4, and

Note 1, and

have children

read paragraphs:14

6i the

primary lesson.

Study

Questions'

5.12, and Notes 2-4. Children may read

paragtaphs

4-6 of

the

primary lesson. Read pages 342 and 343 of the Lesson

—

Help.

8-11

7tu

e. :1

?Ae

les

, ailtedadN

feelio„

s i

pages

-3

ral

.a1

Lessen Help.

5.- Read"

the Parallel Scriptures. Let the full story of the lesson be

told, by each member contributing a part.

6. Review, a portion of the lesson by using questions in senior, youth',.

junior, or primary lesson.

Review. the remaining portion of the lesson

suggested for the

preceding study.

QUESTIONS

When Jesus returned from Gadara to Capernaum, who gath-

ered to meet Him? Mark 5:

21.

On this occasion, what important person came to Jesus? What

was the-burden of his heart? What did he-ask Jesus to do?

Verses 22,

23.

Note

How did Jesus resPond to the request? Who followed Him?

Verse 24.

While He was on the way to the home of Jairus, who was

among the multitude that thronged Him? How long

had

this woman been ill? • Verse 25.

What effort had she put forth to get well? With what result?-

Verse 26.

How did she manifest her faith that Jesus could heal her?

Verses 27; 28.

What blessing came'to her through this touch of faith? Verse

29. Note 2.

Of what was Jesus immediately conscious? 'What question

did He ask? Verse 3o. Note 3.

9..1

Jow did the disciples express their surprise ;it such a ques-

tion? • For whom did Jesus look? Verses .31, 32. Note

to. When the woman saw that Jesus recognized her, what did

she- do? Verse 33.



•

it. How did Jesus quiet her fears? Verse 34.

12.

'While they were thus delayed, what message came front

the home of Jairus? Verse 35.

13.

What

comforting words did Jesus then speak to Jairus?

Verse

36.

14.

Him many disciples did Jesus permit to continue the journey

.from that place with Him? Verse 37.

15.

What condition did Jesus find on His arrival

the home of

Jairus? Verse 38. Note 5.

16.

What did Jesus say to those who were wailing? How did

they express their incredulity? Whom alone did Jesus permit

to go, into the room

where the body of :the 'child lay?

Verses 39, 40.



•

17.

Describe 'the manner in which Jesus restored the maiden to

life. How old was the girl? How did this affect those who -

were there? Verses 41, 4



[ 1e ]

18, What charge did Jesus give the parents.? • What did .He ask

them. to do for the. girl? Verse, 43.

NOTES

"The !`ruler• of the synagogue' occupied a very

important

position.•



the..



synagogue he was the third officer .in

rank; the first officer being the high priest,.and the second the

chief of the priests. In provincial synagogues the `ruler'. was

supreme. No one was eligible to this office until he had a

certificate from the great Sanhedrin that he possessed the requisite

qualifications. His election, however,. was by the members of the

synagogue. It was his duty to supervise all matters connected

with worship."—"Bible

Manners, and. Customs."

The Touch of Faith.

The disciples could not understand

the difference. between the selfish and. curious crowding of the

multitude and the tduch of faith; but' Jesus could underStand.

It was not the mere touch that healed;-neither was it the garments

of Christ; it was the power of Christ in response to the faith of

the woman. Faith has been defined as "the soul's grasp of Christ's

power to save," and here was its manifestation. The woman

saw by faith the healing already accomplished; she approPriated

the 'boon desired by manifesting her faith. There is as great

difference between the prayer of faith and the fOrmal prayer

between the touch of faith and the casual touch. The prayer

of true faith lays hold of the power of God even as the touch of

faith brought virtue from Christ.

What was it that went from Christ to the afflicted woman?

It was just the thing that she stood in need of, and that was life.

As soon as she touched Jesus; she was made whole. 'Life 'from

Jesus-had follOWed that touch of faith, and filled her, ThiS also

was written "that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the

Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His

name." John 2o: 31. Christ "is our life." Col. 3: 4. He came

to give life—not simply physical life, but spiritual life.

"When the suffering woman put forth her hand to touch

Him, believing that she would be made.whole, she felt the healing

virtue. So in spiritual things. To talk. of religion in a casual

way, to pray without soul-hunger and living faith, avails nothing.

A nominal faith in Christ, which accepts Him merely as the

Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul.. The

faith that is unto salvation is not a mere intelleetual assent to

the truth: He who waits for entire knowledge before he will

exercise. faith,. can not receive blessing from God. It is not

enough to believe

about

Christ.; we must believe

in.

Him. The

only faith that will benefit us is that which embrace Him as a

personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves.

Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a transaction, by

which those who receive Christ, join themselves in covenant

relation with God. Genuine faith is life. A living faith means

an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes

a conquering power."—"The

Desire of Ages,"

347. •

11]

5. Noisy demonstrations of grief at the death of a friend

are common in. Eastern countries. As soon as a person dies,

all the women "in the family set up a loud and doleful cry.

They continue it as long as they can without taking breath, and

the shriek of wailing dies away in a low sob. Nor do the relatives

satisfy themselves with these expressions of violent grief. They

hire persons of both sexes, whose employment it is to mourn

for the dead in like frantic manner. (See Amos 5: 16; Jer.

20.

)"—Barnes.

"Even the poorest were obliged to provide for a funeral two

flute players and one wailing woman."—Cambridge

Bible.

LESSON 4

TWO BLIND MEN HEALED; A DUMB

SPIRIT CAST OUT

July 25, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matt. 9: 27-38,

MEMORY VERSE: "Then touched He their eyes, saying, According to

your faith be it unto you." Matt. 9: 29.

PLACE: Probably in Galilee.

PERSONS: Jesus and the twelve; two blind men; a dumb man; the

Pharisees and the multitude.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

Blind men and other unfortunates in those days frequented

the highways in Palestine, begging of the passer-by. The afflicted

men in the lesson were probably of this class. A modern writer

says, "Blindness is common in Palestine to a degree which we

in Western lands can scarcely realize."

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the

"Setting of the Lesson," and the Lesson Scripture.. Children

read paragraphs 1-4 of the primary lesson. Drill on the memory verse

every day.

Let each member of the family have a part in telling the story of

the two blind men. Study Note 2 until you can give .the substance in

your own words.

Study Questions 6-8. Children read paragraphs 5-9 of

the

primary

lesson. Study. Note 3.

Study Questions 9-13, and Notes 4-6. Juniors may

read

notes in

"The Youth's Instructor."

Name

persons mentioned in the lesson, telling what each one

said

or did.

Review a portion of the lesson by using questions. in senior,'youth's:

junior, or primary lesson.

Review

the latter half of the lesson as suggested for the preceding study:

QUESTIONS

After the healing of Jairus' daughter, what unfortunate pert

sons followed Jesus? What request did, they make

of, the

Saviour ?. Matt. 9 : 27. Note. I.

[ 12 ]

As they pressed their petition, into what place did the blind

men follow Jesus? What pointed question did• Jesus

then.

address to

the

blind men? What did they reply? Verse 28:

What did Jesus then do and say? Verse 29.

After ,their• eyes were opened, what did Jesus charge dies

men nov to do? Verse 30. Note

How did! they disregard the Saviour's request? Verse. 31.

After the departure of these men, who was brought to Jess?'

Verse 32.

How did •the casting out of the evil spirit affect the man?

How did, this miracle affect the multitude who saw it?

Verse 33.

By what power did the Pharisees say Jesus cast out, devils?,

Verse 34. Note 3.

How extensively did Jesus carry forward His work? Verse

35,first part.



•

io. What three things in particular did He do as He traveled'

about?: Verse

3s,

last part. Note 4.

it. What condition did He see among the 'people, that excited'

His pity? Verse 36. Note 5.

12.

What did He say to His disciples? Verse 37-

13.

For what did He jell them to pray? Verse 38. Mote

NOTES

t. There are several instances in the four Gospels where the

phrase "son of David" is used in referring to Jesus. The JeWS

commonly believed, according to the Scriptures, that the MeSsiah

would- be the son of David (John 7: 42) ; but they were greatly

offended at having such language applied to Jesus, and for this

reason tried'



stop it. (See Matt.

20 : 30,

31.) Those who

made use of the term were convinced that He was the son of

David and therefore the Messiah. Their very cry for help

acknowledged Him as the Christ.

2. Had Jesus at this early period fully manifested Himself

as the Messiah, the people might have tried to make Him

king,

as they

thought to do near the close of His ministry. Such

an attempt would have increased the hatred of the Jewish rulers

and aroused the suspicions of the Roman government ; and

thereby serious obstacles would have been raised, which, humanly

speaking, would have greatly hindered the work Christ came to do:

"Had: the: priests known the facts concerning the, healing

of the leper,• their hatred of Christ might have led them to

remit

a dishonest:sentence. Jesus desired the man to present himself

at the temple before any rumors concerning the miracle had

reached them: Thus an impartial decision could be secured,

;

and

the restored .leper would be permitted to unite once more with

his family and friends:

133

•

There' were other objects which Christ had • in view in

enjoining silence on the man: The Saviour knew. that His enemies

were ever seeking to limit His work, and to turn the people from

Him. He knew that if the healing of the leper were noised

abroad, other sufferers from 'this terrible .disease would crowd

about Him, and the cry would be raised that the 'people would

be contaminated by contact :with them. Many of the. lepers would

not so use the gift of health as,to make it a. blessing to themselves

or <to others. And by drawing the lepers about. Him; He would

give occasion for the charge that He Was breaking down

the

restrictions of the ritual law. Thus His' work in .preaching the

gOsikel would be hindered."—"The

Desire of Ages,"

p. 264.

3. In commenting on Matt. 12: 22-30, which records an instance

similar to the one in this lesson, the author of "The Desire of

Ages" says, on pages 321 and 322:

"It was just before this that Jesus had a second time per-

formed the miracle of healing a man possessed, blind and. dumb,

and the Pharisees had reiterated the charge, 'He .casteth out

devils • through the prince of the devils.' . Christ...told them.

plainly that in 'attributing the work of the Holy, Spirit to Satan,

they. were cutting themselves off from the fOuntain of blessing.

Those who had spoken against Jesus Himself„ not discerning

His divine character, might receive forgiveness; for through the

Holy Spirit they might be brought to see their error and 'repent.

Whatever the sin, if the soul repents and believes,.the guilt is

washed away in the blood of Christ; but he who rejects the work

of the Holy Spirit is placing himself where repentance and faith

can not come to him. It is by the Spirit that God works upon the

heart; when men willfully reject the Spirit, and declare it to be

from Satan, they cut off the channel by which God can communi-

cate with them. When the Spirit is finally rejected, there is no

more that God can do for the soul."

. 4. "During His ministry, Jesus devoted more time to healing

the sick than to preaching. His miracles testified to the truth

of His words, that He came not to destroy but to save. His

righteousness went before Him, and the glory of the Lord

was'His rearward. Wherever He went, the tidings

of His mercy

preceded Him. Where He had passed, the objects of His com-

passion were rejoicing in health, and making trial sof

their new-

found powers. Crowds were collecting around them to hear

from their' lips the works that the Lord had wrought. His voice

was the first sound that many had ever heard, His name the

first word they had ever spoken, His face the first they had ever

looked' upon. Why should they not love Jesus,' and sound His

praise? As He passed through the towns and cities,- He was

like a vital current, diffusing life and joy wherever He went."—

"The Desire of Ages,"

35o.

5. "Jesus had now been among the people long enough to see

their wretched condition spiritually, to detect their misdirected

yearnings, and their dissatisfaction with the religious instruction

[ 14 ]

they 'Were te:ceiving, and also :to discover the entire un'titncss

of their teachers for the work of instructing and saving them.

They were like sheep, incapable• of caring for themselves, but

capable of being turned and led into right ways. But who' should

do all this? An extensive harvest waited to be garnered, but

who shall do the work? Very few were able and ready to engage

in it. The

LPrd of the harvest alone could raise up and Send

forth the needed laborerS."—Dr.

Adam Clarke.

6. Now, as then, many of the people are without a shepherd.

and the. close of probation is drawing near. The harvest of the

earth is nearly ripe, and is soon to be gathered. In a special sense

should .the people of the Lord earnestly pray at this time, that

the Lord 'of the harvest will raise up laborers, and send them

forth intp the field to give the last call of salvation.

LESSON 5

THE TWELVE SENT FORTH

August 1, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matt. 10: 1-23.

PARALLEL. SCRIPTURES: Mark 6: 7=13; Luke .0

t"1-6.

MEMORY VERSE: "Freely ye have received; freely give." Matt. 10: 8.

1, LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 349-355.

(

PLACE: Galilee.

(

PERSONS'; Jesus and the twelve disciples.

SETTING OF

. THE LESSON

"The, apostles were members of the family of Jesus, and they

had accompanied Him as He traveled on foot through Galilee...

As Jesus ministered to the vast multitudes that gathered about

Him. .His disciples were in attendance, eager to do His bidding

and to lighten His labor. ;They assisted in arranging the people,

bringing the afflicted ones to the Saviour, and :promoting the

comfort of all. They watched for interested hearers, explained

the Scriptures to them, and in various ways worked for their

spiritual benefit. They taught what they had learned of Jesus, and

were every day obtaining a rich experience. But they needed also

an experience in laboring alone."—"The

Desire of Ages," P. 3.p.

Suggestions for Daily_ Family Study

1- Read the "Setting of the Lesson." Study Questions 1-6, with Notes I

and 2. Drill on the memory verse and the names of the apostles, each day

in the week.

2. Study Questions 7-11, with Notes 3 and 4. Children may read

paragraphs 1-7 of the primary lesson.

Study• Questions 12.18; with Notes 5 and 6. Children may read para-

graphs 8-10 of the primary lesson.

4. Let each member of the 'family have a part in telling the lesson as a

story. Read selections from the Lesson Help.

115

]

Read the Parallel Scriptures. Ask questions on, the most .difficult

points in the lesson, using senior quarterly or junior lesson, and motes.

Review the first half of the lesson, each member taking part. Use

questions in senior, youth's, junior, or primary lesson.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested: for

the

preceding study.



QUESTIONS

When Jesus sent forth the twelve disciples what power did.

He give them? Matt. to: 1.

Name the twelve disciples. Verses 2-4.

In the beginning of their ministry, to what people did -Jesus

charge His disciples not to go? Verse 5. Nbte

Who did the Saviour say should be the firSt'.Object of their

labors? Verse 6.

What was to be the keynote of their message? Verse 7.

Note

What help did Jesus instruct them to give to the people? What

was to be the measure of their labor of love? Verse 8.

What instruction did Jesus give them concerning temporal

matters? What reason does He give for this instruction?

Verses 9, to.

When they entered a city, for whom were they, to inquire?

What were they then to do? Verse xx..

Upon entering a house, what were they to do? What was to

be their attitude toward a worthy or an unworthy house?

Verses 32; 13. Note 3.

to. If the people did not receive them, what were they to. do?

Verse

14. Note 4.

it. What doomed cities of old will be more favored than those

who rejected the message of the twelve? Verse 15.

12.

To what does Jesus liken those among whom the disciples'

were sent? What counsel did He give them? Verse t6.:

13.

Of whom were they to beware? What was to be their ex-

perience? Verses 17, 18.

14.

For what should they take no thought? -Verse 19.

15.

What agency would speak through them? Verse 20. „I:dote 5.

16.

What division will the gospel sometimes make .in the.,house-

hold?' What will one's own kindred sometimes be led .to do?

Verge

21.

17.

How far will this hatred extend? Who only will be saved?

Verse 22. Note 6.

18.

What were the disciples instructed to d6: when perSeeuted?

Verse 23!

NOTES

r. The command of the SaviOur to the twelve, "Go'not into

the way of the gentiles, and intoany, city of :the ,'SatnaritanS

enter ye not," did not mean that ilis-rgospel„Was. never: to' be

I 16" :

preached to other peoples. Every great movement has a home

base, an&Galileeiwas favorably situated for launching the proc-

lamation, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand."- 'The Jewish

`people had had' long'training in the service of the true God, but

many had strayed 'far from the path of righteousness, and were

indeed "lost sheep." It was only fitting that they, first of all,

Should hear the call to repentance and reformation essential to

citizenship in the Messiah's kingdom. Moreover, the seventy

weeks of Daniel 9: 24 had not expired; almost seven years still

remained, allotted to a special work for Daniel's. people "according

to the flesh," and for Jerusalem, "the holy city." A turning to the

gentiles

. at this :time• would have been premature; hence the

instruction for the time being recorded in. Matthew to: 5, 6.

2. "If they [the disciples] had now preached the gospel to

the gentiles orthe Samaritans, they would have lost their influence

with the Jews. By exciting the prejudice of the Pharisees

they would have involved themselves in controversy which would

have discouraged them at the outset of their labors. Even the

apostles' were 'slow to understand that the gospel was to be

carried to all nations. Until they themselves could grasp. this

truth, they were not prepared to labor for the gentiles. If the

Jews would receive the gospel, God purposed to make them His

messengers to the gentiles. Therefore they were first to hear the

message..''' The

Desire 'of Ages," p. 351.

'3.

The customary Oriental salutation was. "Peace be to this

house:".. If the house was unworthy, the proffered blessing would

not rest upon it.

"Peace, among the Hebrews, had a very extensive meaning—

it comprehended all blessings, spiritual and temporal. ... To wish

peace to a family, in the name and by the authority of Christ.

was in effect a positive promise, on the Lord's side, of all the

good implied in the wish.. This was paying largely even before-

hand. .. .

'If the house be worthy'—if

that family shall be found

to be proper for a preacher to lodge in, and the master be ready

to embrace

for

message of salvation.

'Your peace'—the

blessings

you have prayed for, shad come upon the family: God will prosper

them in their bodies, souls, and substance."—Dr.

Adam Clarke.

"To shake the dust of any city of Israel from off one's

clothes or feet -was-an emblematical action, signifying a renuncia-

tion of all farther connection with them, and placing them on

a level with the cities of the heathen."---/d.

Daily the servant of the Lord should be filling his mind

with the mighty truths of God's Word. Then when asked for a

reason of his faith, whether before judges or councils, or 'Whether

in trial by the adversary of our souls, the Holy Spirit will bring

to the mind the very promises of the Word that are needed.

John 14:

The triartyrsthose who have witnessed for Jesus—have

riot'all been

burned at

the stake, nor have they all died in

dungeons. Some are iirlidmes suffering for the truth'S sake.' As a

[

17]



result of obeying God and walking in the light, waves have borne

persecution from husbands, and husbands from

wives, and

parents

from children. To, stand true to' God under such circumstanceS

takes a martyr's spirit and a heart made 'strong by the love of God. -

Those„ who as good soldiers endure to the end will be saved.

SUPPOSED FATE OF THE DISCIPLES AND APOSTLES

"Matthew was martyred in the city of Ethiopia.

'.'Mark was dragged through the streets of Alexandria in Egypt,

till he expired.

"Luke was hanged upon an olive tree in Greece.

"John was bound and cast into a caldron of boiling oil

in Rome

without injury, and it is said that he died a natural death

at Ephesus in Asia.

"Peter . was crucified in Rome, with

his

head down, regarding

himself as unworthy to be crucified as his Lord.

"James the Great was beheaded in Jerusalem.

"James the Less was beaten to death with a fuller's club.

"Philip was hanged against a pillar at Hierapolis in Phrygia.

"Thomas was slain with a lance at Coromandel, East. India.

"Bartholomew was flayed alive.

"Jude was shot to death with arrows.

"Simon Zelotes was crucified in Persia.

"Andrew was crucified, says tradition, at Patrx in Achaia.

"Matthias was beheaded.

"Barnabas was stoned to death by Jews at Salamis.

"Paul was beheaded at Rome in the reign of Nero.

"Such was their fate, according to legends and traditions

that have been handed down through the centuries.'—"Christian

Herald," Feb. 23, 1916.

LESSON 6

INSTRUCTION TO THE TWELVE

August 8, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE:

Matt. 10: 24 to 11: 1.

MEMORY VERSE: "Whosoever shall give to drink unto' one of these

little ones a cup of cold water only in the name Of a disciple, verily I

say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward." Matt. tO: 42.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages,"

pp.

355-358.

PLACE: Galilee.

PERSONS: Jesus and the twelve disciples.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

Jesus had called His twelve apostles together, and was about

to send them out, two and two, through the towns and villages.

Before they went, He gave them instruction concerning what

they were to sap and do. The instruction is continued in

this lesson.

[18

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of the Lesson." Study Questions 1-5, and Notes I

and 2. Children may read paragraphs 1-5 of the primary lesson. Drill on

the memory- verse each day.



Study Questions 6-9, with Notes 3-5. Name various ways in which

we may deny

, •

Chri.si. Children may read paragraphs 6-10 of the' Pri,

mary

lesson.



•



. •

Study Questions 10-12. Read selected portions of the Lesson: Help.

Ask questions, in the primary lesson.



Let each member ,of the family ,have a part in telling the lesson as

a story. Study the notes in .he junior lessOn.

Ask questions on the 'most difficult, parts of the lesson. Read selected

portions of the Lesson Help. .Study. the youth's lesson and motes.

Review

the first half of the lesson, each. member taking. part. , Use

questions, in senior, youth's, junior, or primary lesson.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested for the

preceding study. • .

QUESTIONS

1. What does Jesus say of our relationship to those in authority?

Matt. to : 24.

2, What did Jesus intend that His disciples should understand

by this statement? As Master'of the house, how had Jesus

'been treated? Verse 25.

For what reason does He encourage His disciples not to

fear such treatment? Verse 26.

HOW was the truth to be proclaimed? Verse 27. Note t.

What boldness yet what fear did Jesus urge upon-His fol-

lowers? Verse 28. Note 2.



•

'What illustration does Jesus use to show the Father's care

for His children ? Verses 29-31.

What promise is made to those who faithfully confess Jesus

before the world? Verse 32. Note 3.

What is- said of those who deny Him before the world?

Verse

Note 4.

What surprising statement did Jesus then make concerning

His mission to this world? Verse 34. Note 5.

to. How vitally would His mission affect some human relation-

ships? Verses 35, 36.

t. How may we become unworthy of Jesus? Verse 37.

12.

What must every true follower of the Master bear? Verse 38.

t3. What vital principle of life does Jesus lay down? Verse 39.

14.

How closely does Jesus ally His followers with Himself and

the Father? Verse 40.

15.

How does our attitude toward God's messengers govern the

reward we shall receive? Verse 41.

'16. What assurance is given that the smallest act of kindness

will be duly rewarded? Verse 42.

17. When Jesus had finished His instruction to the twelve, what

did He do? Matt.

It': I.

I 19

NOTES

Eastern countries, the housetops are usually flat. When

a death occurs in a dwelling, the mourners, mostly hired for that

purpose, go to the housetops, where they attract attention by

their loud wailing and lamentation. From the 'housetops, decrees

and proclamations of civil authorities are .made. These procla-

mations are generally made in the evening, when the streets are

full after the people have returned from their lab

ors in the field.

The.publie crier ascends to the highest roof, and lifts up his voice

in a long-drawn call upon all faithful subjects to give ear and

obey. He then proceeds to announce the will of their master

and demands obedience. The call to divine worship is often made

from the housetop in the absence of a tower or bell. Jesus taught

His disciples that they were to go to the multitudes, and there

proclaim the truth with courage and power.

"The servant is not above his master. The Prince of heaven

was called Beelzebub, and His disciples will be misrepresented

in like manner. But whatever the danger, Christ's followers

must avow their principles. They should scorn Concealment.

They can not remain uncommitted until assured of safety in con-

fessing the truth. They are set as watchmen,. to warn men of

their peril. The truth received from Christ must be imparted to

all, freely and openly. Jesus said, 'What I tell you in dAkness,

that speak ye in light; and what ye hear in the ear, that preach

ye upon the housetops.' Jesus Himself never purchased peace by

compromise."—"The

Desire of Ages," p. 355.

"The confession of Christ by the apostles was before the

heads of their religion, the chief priests who had crucified Him.

It was before rulers and kings, before the philosophers of Athens.

the libertines of Corinth. It was the bold, unflinching avowal

that the world was saved by the cruel and disgraceful death of

ajew, one of a nation regarded with pretty much the same con-

tempt as they are now. They who Made this conf

ession always

made it at the risk of their lives. . . A ChriStian has now to

profess the creative power of God among evolutionists, and the all-

ruling providence of God in the company of unbelieving scientists.

In some companies, he has to brave the ridicule, attaching to the

belief in miracles. In the society of filthy-minded men, he has

to: uphold the purity of Christ; and in the society of worldlings.

he may be called upon to uphold the rooted antagonism between

the world and Christ. These may seem very poor:and mild ways

of confessing Christ, compared with what our forefathers in

the faith had to endure; but they all try the mettle of the Christian.

If.he.is

..faithful in confessing Christ in, these comparatively little

matters, he may have good hope that GOd would, if, called upon,

give,,him.grace to make a bolder and more public' and dangerous

confession if it was laid upon him

so to do. 'Snell is the confession

of Christ; and the reward answers to it."—M.

F. Sadler.

[ 20 )

There

are different v‘aj;;;

of denying ChriSt "Men may

deny Christ hy evil-speaking, by foolish talking; by words that

are untruthful or unkind. They may deny Him by shunning

life's burdens

;

by the pursuit. of sinful pleasure.: They may deny

Him by conforming to the World, by uncourteous behavior, by

the love of their own opinions, by justifying self, by cherishing

doubt, borrowing trouble, and dwelling in darkness. In all these

ways they declare that Christ is not in them."—"The

Desire of

Ages,"

357.

The prophet names Jesus "the Prince of Peace." Isa. g: 6.

At His birth, an angelic- host sang, "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, good will toward men." Luke

2: 13,

14. How,

then, are we to account for these words in verse? 34, 35? The

spirit of

Christ is not at war with men, but with principles. Light

and darkness will not blend. Oil and water will not mix. Jesus

came to deliver man from the bondage of sin. To those who

receive Him, He brings peace. In the hearts of those who reject

Him there is war. While ,Christ came to give peace 'to all, His

coming challenges the powers -of darkness in the hearts of men.

Thus it is saidthat the gospel divides families, -and rends asunder

the strongest ties of nature; but in reality, it is sin that brings

division when some members .of a

family refuse to yield to

righteousness.

LESSON 7

FIVE THOUSAND FED; JESUS

WALKS ON THE SEA

August

15, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Mark 6: 30-56.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 14: 14-33; Luke 9: 10-17; John

6: 1-21.

MEMORY VERSE: "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." Matt.

14: 27.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 364-382.

PLACES: Near Bethsaida; Sea of Galilee.

PERSONS: Jesus; the disciples; the multitude.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

The twelve had returned from their first. missionary trip.

They "came to Jesus and told Him all things. Their intimate

relationship with Him encouraged them to lay before Him their

favorable and unfavorable experiences, their joy at seeing results

from their labors, and their sorrow at their failures, their faults,

and their weaknesses. They had committed errors in their first

Work as evangelists, and as they frankly told Christ of their expe-

21 ]

riences, He saw that they needed much instruction. He saw, too,

that they had become weary in their labors, and that they needed

rest."---':`The..Desire of Ages,".

359,•

•

"Vield

thy poor best, and ask not how or why, '

Lest one day, seeing all about thee spread

A mighty

crowd and marvelously fed,

Thy heart break out into a bitter cry :

'I might have furnished, 1, yea, even I,

The two small fishes and the barley bread.' "

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of the Lesson," and Mark 6: 30-44. Children read

paragraphs 1-5 of the primary lessofi.

Study Queltions 1-10, and Notes 1-4. 'Note especially the poem follow-

ing the "Setting of the Lesson."

Let the story of the feeding of the multitude be told by each member

of the family. Read selections from the Lesson Help, pp. 364-371.

Study Questions 11, 12, and Notes 5 and 6. Read pages 377 and '378

of the Lesson= Help.

Study Questions 13-18, and Notes 7, and 8. Children read paragraphs

6-11. Drill on the memory verse.

Ask questions on feeding the multitude, from senior, youth's, junior,

or primary lesson. Read Parallel Scriptures on this topic.

Review the latter part of the lesson in a similar manner. Read

selections from pages 380,382 of the Lesson Help.

QUESTIONS

Upon returning from their first missionary tour, 'what did

the disciples tell Jesus? Mark 6: 30.

Knowing that they were weary, what invitation did Jesus

give them? Verse 31. Note 1.

How did they endeavor to take leave of the people? How

successful were they in this? Verses 32, 33. Note 2.

When Jesus saw the vigilance of the people, how did He feel

toward them? What were they like? What help did He

give them? Verse 34.

As night approached, what suggestion did the disciples make?

Verse's 35, 36.

What was Jesus' reply? Who of the disciples qnestiOned

their ability to feed so many? Verse 37; John 6: 7.

What discovery was made by another disciple? John 6: 8, 9.

Note 3.

How did Jesus have the disciples arrange this large multitude,

that' they might be fed? Mark 6: 39, 4

What did He then do in the sight 'of the people? What part

did the disciples act? Verse 41.

to. How amply did the loaves and fishes supply the needs of all?

How much was afterwards gathered up? 1-Tow many had

eaten? Verses 42-44. Note 4.

it. What did thoSe say who saw this miracle? What did Jesus

perceive that the multitude would. do? John 6: 14, 15. Note 5.

[ 22 ]

12.

How were they prevented from carrying out their plan? When .

the disciples had gone into the boat and the multitudes had

been sent away, what did Jesus do? Matt. 14; 22, 23. Note 6.

13.

What was the experience of the disciples in crossing the. lake?

How did Jesus go to them? Verses 24, 25. Note 7.

14.

How did Jesus' presence at such a tittle and place affect the

disciples? What assuring words did He speak to them?

Verses 26, 27.

is. What request did Peter make? Verse 28:

76. What reply did Jesus make? What was Peter's experience?

Verses 29-31.

17.

When Jesus and Peter entered the ship, what came to pasS?

What did those in the ship do? Verses 32, 33. (See John

6:21.) Note 8.

18.

Where did they land? What did the people of Gennesaret

do as

soon as they recognized Jesus? What blessing did

Jesus bring to the people of this whole region? Matt.

34-36; Mark 6 : 36.

NOTES

7. "In a life wholly devoted to the good of others, the Saviour

found it necessary to withdraw from the thoroughfares of travel

and from the throng that followed Him day after day. -He must

turn aside from a life of ceaseless activity and contact with human

needs, to seek retirement and unbroken communion with His

Father. As one with us, a sharer in our needs and weaknesses,

He was wholly dependent upon God, and in the secret place of

prayer He sought divine strength, that He might go forth braced

for duty and trial. In a world of sin, Jesus endured struggles

and torture of soul. In communion with God He could unburden

the sorrows that were crushing Him. Here He found comfort

and

joy."—"The Desire of Ages,"

pp.

62,

63.

The "desert place" to which Jesus and His disciples retired

seeking rest was not a barren, desolate region. John says there

was much grass there (John 6: To), and Mark says that the

grass was green (Mark 6: 39). It was no doubt a quiet, sparsely

populated region.

Jesus was able to feed the multitude with the little food at

hand. We may learn a lesson from this. Our talents may be

few, but if:we bring them to Jesus, He can use them

feed

hungry souls who are perishing for the bread of life.



•

"He who had all the resources of infinite power at His

command said, `Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing

be lost.' These words meant more than putting the bread into

the baskets. The lesson was twofold. Nothing is to be wasted.

We are to let slip no temporal advantage. - We should neglect

nothing that will tend to benefit a human being. Let everything

be gathered up that will relieve the necessity of earth's' hungry

[231

ones. And'iliere Sh'mild be the same carefulness in spiritual

the baskets of fragments were collected, the people

tliOught of 'their friends at home. They wanted them to share in

the bread ;that "Christ had blessed. The contents of the baskets

Were 'diAributed among the eager throng, and -were, carried

away into all the region round about. So those who were at the

feast were to give to others the bread that comes down from

heaven, to satisfy the hunger of theisoul. They were to repeat

what they had learned of the wonderful things•of God. Nothing

was,to be lost. Not one word that concerned their eternal salvia:

tion was to fall useless to the ground."—"The

Desire of Ages;"

68.

"The:Jews had often suffered by famine in those times in

Which their enemies were permitted to prevail over them; but,

finding that Jesus had such power as to multiply a few loaves

to feed thousands; they took it for granted that while He was

their.,heacl,, no. evil could possibly happen to them, and there-

fore were determined immediately to proclaim Him king."—Dr.

Adam Clarke.

6. "Calling His disciples, Jesus bids them take the boat, and

return at once to Capernaum, leaving Him to dismiss the people.

'"Never before had a command from Christ seemed so im-

possible' of fulfillment. The disciples had long hoped for a

popuiai Anovdment 'to place Jesus on the throne; they could not

endure ''iffe

—

ihought that all this enthusiasm .should come to

itothing The multitudes that were assembling to keep the Pass-

.OVer Were anxious to see the new prophet. To His followers

:;'this seemed the golden opportunity to establish ,their beloved

'Master On-the throne of Israel. In the glow of this new ambition

'it was hard for them to go away by themselves, and leave Jesus

'alone upon that' desolate shore. They protested against the

•

arratigenient; but Jesus now spoke with an authority He had never

before assumed toward thein. They knew that further opposition

'on their i:i'art Would be useless, and in silence they turned toward

the sea,

•

"Jesns now commands the multitude to disperse; and His

manner is sd'decisive that they dare not disobey. The words of

praise and, exaltation die on their lips. In the very act of ad-

'vancing to Seize Him, their steps are stayed, and the glad, eager

look 'fades from their countenances."—"The

Desire .

;

of Ages,"

- 37

. "'

P6rriter1y'the Jews had but three watches of the night,

enumerated as the first, or "beginning of the watches" (Lam.

:2 : i9);



watch" (Judges 7: 19), and "the morning

'watch" •(:Pt.

14: 24; ' I Sam. it : it). These were respectively

froin'§tifOetto



m., from to p. m. to

a. m., and from 2 a. in.

"to ;Stun

it&"'At this -time, however, they had mostly given up

theif OWt1,thinplitatiOn of the night watches, and adopted that of

namelY; four watches, from .6 p. ,m. to• 6 a. m., and

1 24

known as even, midnight, cockcrowing, and morning. Mark 13.:

35. The "fourth" watch must, therefore, -have been between

three and six .o'clock in the morning.

We may learn lessons from this experience in .the 'last w!atch

of the night. It was in the last watch of the night, the morning

watch, that God delivered Israel of old from :their ..Egyptian

foes. Ex. 14: 24-31. Out of that came their glorious triumph,

and the song of the triumph, the song of Moses. This

parable

deals with the last watch of the night, the morning watch ,

...:and-v>e

-are in that time now,—in the fourth watch of: the night of -sin

and probation. And we are on the storm-tossed .sea

-of

i.trouble,

seemingly "in the midst of the sea," no nearer the shore

tet,which

we are bound, after years

of rowing. Why' not taker-the; lesson

home—receive Jesus into the ship "in the midst of the see—still

a long way from the land of human

longing? SoMehow, is it

not true of us as it was of them? They' were, afraid. Of -the

Master when He appeared. He came in a way they::Were

not

looking for. In fact, they hardly seemed to be

eitpeetMicHimat.all.

They thought they must by their own power and:skill ariclelom

and policy save themselves. Yet, when they received Hint into

the boat. "immediately the ship was at the land-..:whither they

went." Would we not solve a great manyof our trials ,and' per

plexities if we would receive Jesus into the 'ship

. now?'.'

- How

much we need the Master in the ship ! How willing fle-is to come:.

in and take charge, and thus to span the distance'

bctWeetrlitg•:.

and the land whither we are going!

8. "When trouble comes upon us, how often we are like

Peter. We look upon the waves, instead of keeping oureyes,fixed

upon the SaViour. Our footsteps slide, and the Protict waters

go over Our souls. Jesus did not bid Peter come td

Hityrthat he

should perish ; He does not call us to follow • Him, and 'then' for-

sake us.

"—"The Desire of Ages," p. 382.

Read Isa.

LESSON 8

THE BREAD OF LIFE'

August 22, 1925 •

LESSON SCRIPTURE: John 6:22-71.

MEMORY VERSE: "I am the bread of life: he that cometb.to Me shall

never hanger." John 6: 35.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 383-391.

PLACE: The plain of Gennesaret; synagogue in Capernaym.

PERSONS: Jesus; the disciples; the people.

. SETTING OF THE LESSON

"The miracle.:-of the loaves was reported far- and bear; ;and

very early next- morning the people flOcked toi

Bethsaidaqd see

25 1 :

Jesus. •They•came in great numbers, by land and sea. Those who

had left Him the preceding night returned, expecting to find Him

still there; for there had been no boat by which He could pass

to the other side. But their search was fruitless; and many re-

paired to Capernaum, still seeking Him. Meanwhile He had

attived at Gennesaret, after

an absence of but one day. . . .

"After 'a time He went to the synagogue, and there those who

had come froth Bethsaida found Him•. They learned from His

disciples hoW He had crossed. the sea. . . . Not content with

thiS, howeirer, many gathered about Jesus, questioning, 'Rabbi,

when tamest Thou hither?' They hoped to receive from His

ownlips a further account of the miracle. Jesus did not gratify

their curiosity."—"The

Desire of Ages," pp. 383, 384.

Suggestions for Daily. Family Study

1. Read the "Setting of the Lesson," and John 6: 22-40. Children may

read paragraphs 1-6 of 'the primary lesson. Drill on the memory verse and

its meaning,' each day.

2. Study. Questions 1-4, and Note 1. Ask questions on a portion of

the children's lessons.

3. Study Questions 5-8. Children may read paragraphs 7-12 of the

primary lesson. Read selected portions of the Lesson Help.

4. Read John 6: 41-71. Study Questions

9-13, and Note 2. Review

the children on their lesson.

5. Study Questions 14-19, and Notes 3-5. Study the lesson in "The

Youth's Instructor" with junior members.

6. Review a portion of the lesson by using senior, youth's, junior, or

primary lesson. Emphasize the spiritual truths set forth.;

7. Review the latter part of the lesson as suggested for the preceding study.

QUESTIONS



•

On the day following the feeding of the five thousand, how

earliest were the 'people in seeking for Jesus? When they

found' Him, what mystery did they wish cleared up? - John

6.22-25,

Without answering their question, how did Jesus reveal their

motive? ,What did He exhort them to do? Verses 26, 27.

What question did they ask in reply? How did Jesus define

the work, of God? Verses 28, 29.

What evidence did they ask•that they might belieVe? What

Scriptural authority did they use for making such

claim?

Verses 3o, 3i. Note 1.

How did Jesus compare the manna with the bread of life?

On hearing His words, what desire was awakened in their

hearts? Verses 32-34.

What did Jesus then say of Himself? What would be the

experience of those who should believe on Him? Verse 35.

7, How will He receive those who come to Him? What was His

purpose

in coming into the world? Verses 37, 38.

8. What is the will of His Father? yerses 39, 40..

l 26 ]

9:, What murmuring statements did the Jews theri

riiake which

•

showed their unbelief?. Verses 41, 42.

to.. Who.only did Jesus say could come to Him? To what scrip-

ture did .He refer them? Who alone has seen. the. Father?

Verses 43-46.

it. How can 'everlasting life be obtained

' ? What further ekplana-

tion did Jesus make concerning the bread of life? For Whom

did He say this bread was',given?. Verses 47-51.

12.•

What statement seemed especially difficult for .the

. Jews to

•

- understand? Verse 52.

.13:. What further light did Jegus give concerning eating His flesh

and drinking His blood? Verses 53-58.- Note

2..

14.

Where was' Jesus while teaching these truths to the people?

How did these truths affect many of His disciples? Verses

59, 6o. Note 3.



15.

In response to their murmuring, what questions did Jesus .ask

them? Verses 61, 62. .



16.

What contrast is drawn between the flesh and the spirit?

What did Jesus say His words are? With. what did He

charge those who had heard His word? What statement is

made concerning the foreknowledge of Jesus? • Verses 63-65.

t7. As a result of His teaching, what did many of His

followers

do,? Verse 66. Note 4.

i8. What searching question did He ask His disciples? What

was Peter's reply?

Verses 67-69._ Note 5-.

[9. What sad announcement did Jesus make concerning one of

His disciples? Of whom did He speak? Verses 70, 71.

NOTES •

"They had already seen the miracle of the five loaves, and

did not believe; and it was'impossible for them to see anything

mote descriptive of unlimited power and goodness. Even mira-

cles

themselves are lost on persons whose hearts.are,fi*ed on the

perishing things of the •world, and whose minds are filled with

prejudice against the truth. Their argument seemed to run

thus

: Thou Bast, we grant, fed five thousand men with five

loaves and two small fishes; but what is this in comparison with

what Moses did in the desert, who for forty years fed more

than a million persons .with bread from heaven? Do something

like this, and then we will believe on Thee, as we have believed

on Moses."—Dr.

Adam Clarke.

"To eat the flesh- and drink the blood of Christ is to receive

Him as a personal Saviour, believing that He forgives our sins,

and that we are complete in Him. It is by beholding His love,

by dwelling upon it, by drinking it in, that we are to become

27I

partakers of His nature. What food is to the body, Christ must

be to the soul. Food can not benefit us unless we eat it ; finless

it becomes a part of our being. So Christ is of no value to us

if we do not know Him as a personal Saviour, A theoretical

knowledge wilt do us. no good. We must feed upon Him, receive

Him into the heart, so that His life becomes our life. His love,

His grace, must be assimilated."---

Thi

Desire of, Ages," p. 389.

Among those .who followed Jesus were many who had only

selfish ends to gratify. They were willing to share in all the

blessings and privileges about which He taught, but were not

willing to comply with the provisions and conditions upon which

these blessings were to be obtained. Jesus taught of spiritual,

eternal things. They thought only of carnal, material things.

When they began to understand that a change of heart and life

in themselves was necessary in order to be true disciples of the

Master, they questioned His teachings, and many of them followed

Him no more.

"By the public rebuke of their unbelief these disciples

were still further alienated from Jesus. They were greatly dis-

pleased, and wishing to wound the Saviour, and gratify the malice

of the Pharisees, they turned their backs upon Him, and left

Him with disdain.. They had made their choice,—had taken

the form without the spirit, the husk without the kernel.. Their

decision was never afterward reversed ; for they walked no more

with

Jesus."—"The

Desire of Ages," p. 392.

"Are

you a follower of Christ? Then all that is written

concerning the spiritual life is written for you, and may be attained

through uniting yourself to Jesus. Is your zeal languishing?

has your first love grown cold? Accept again of the proffered

love of Christ. Eat of His fleih,- drink of His blood, and you

will become one with the Father and with the Son. . . .

"As our physical life is sustained by food, so our spiritual

life is sustained by the Word of God. And every soul is to

receive life from God's Word for himself. As we must eat for

ourselves in order to receive nourishment, so we must receive the

Word for ourselves. We are not to obtain it merely through the

medium of anther's, mind.. We should carefully study.. the Bible,

asking God for the aid of the Holy Spirit, that we may understand

His Word."-74d.,



389, 390.

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

September 26, 1925

INCA UNION

(Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru)

South America

LESSON 9

THE SYROPHcENICIAN'S DAUGHTER; HEAL.

ING THE DEAF AND DUMB MAN

August 29, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Mark 7: 24-37.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURE: Matt. 15: 21-31.

MEMORY VERSE: "Great is thy faith: be it unto thee' even as thou

wilt." Matt. 15: 28.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 399-403.

PLACES: Borders of Tyre and Sidon; region of Decapolis, near, Gergesa,

where the demoniacs were healed.

PERSONS: Jesus and the disciples; the Syropluznician woman and

hpr

daughter; deaf man with an impediment in his speech; the people of

Gergesa.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

"Jesus withdrew

from Capernaum, and crossing Galilee, re-

paired to the hill country on the borders of Phoenicia.. . . In

coming to this region He hoped to find the retirement He

had

failed to secure at Bethsaida. Yet this was not His only' purPose

in taking this journey. . . . The people of this district were of

the old Canaanite race. They were idolaters, and were despised

and hated by the Jews. To this class belonged the woman 'who

now came to Jesus. She was a heathen, and was therefore ex-

cluded from the advantages which the Jews daily enjoyed... .

This woman had heard of the prophet, who, it was reported,

healed all manner of diseases. As she heard of His power, hope

sprung up in her heart. Inspired by a mother's love, she de-

termined to present her daughter's case to Him. It was her

resolute purpose to bring her affliction to Jesus. He must heal

her child. She had sought help from the heathen gods,- but had

obtained no relief."—"The

Desire of Ages," pp. 399,.400.-

"Her eyes

Flashed with quick wit of anguish ; and she cried:

'Truth, Lord ! but crumbs fall, and the dogs may -eat •

The children's leavings !' Then beamed forth anew

That high look on His face, which comforted." '.

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of the Lesson," and Mark 7 : 24-30. Children

may read paragraphs 1-6. Drill on the memory verse and its meaning,

each day.

Study Questions 1-5, and Notes 1 and 2. Read selectpd ,portion.

from the Lesson Help.

Study Questions 6-10, and Note 3. Read selected portions of the

Lesson Help. Trace on the map the route from Capernaum to the. borders

of Phoenicia, in which were Tyre and Sidon, and back to Decapolis... •

Review the, story of the Syrophcrnician woman by telling

what

eaelk

person said and did. Ask questions from the junior lesson in "The-YoutWS

Instructor."

[291

Read Mark 7:31-37. Study Questions 11-15, and Note 4. Children

may read paragraphs 7-9, and answer the questions in the primary lesson.

Review a part of the lesson by using senior, youth's, junior, or

primarY 'lesson.



Review the remainder of the lesson as suggested for the preceding study.

QUESTIONS

From Capernaum, where did Jesus. go on a longer journey

than usual? How was He sought after by the .people? Mark

24.



. •

2...Upon hearing of-His presence, who came to Him? What did

she do? Of what nationality was this woman? From what

great sorrow did she seek help of Jesus? Verses 25, 26.

'3: How were the people of other nationalities regarded by the

Jews? Note i.

14. HOw did Jesus at first seem to regard her request? What

did the disciples urge Him to do? For what reason? Matt.

15: 23.

What was Jesus' first reply to the woman's petition? Verse

24.

Note

How did the woman show that she was determined to press

her petition? Verse 25.

How did Jesus continue to test this woman!s faith? Mark

7:27. Note 3.

With what humility and submission did faith still plead its

cause? Verse 28.

g. How' did divine power respond to her faith? Verse

29.

to. On her return home, what did she find had taken place?

Verse 3o.

1.! Leaving Tyre and Sidon, to what place did Jesus then go?

•

Verse 31. Note 4.

12.'

At 'this place, who was brought to Jesus? What did his

friends beseech Jesus to do? Verse 32.

13.

What did Jesus do for this afflicted man? Verses 33-35.

14.

What did Jesus request should not be done? With what re-

sult? 'Verse 36.

15.

How was the work of Jesus regarded at this time? Verse 37.

NOTES

In the time of our Saviour, the Jews had erected a high

dividing wall between themselves and all people of other nations,

or gentiles, regardless of the country from which they came.

To be outside of the Jewish nation was to be regarded by them

as 'separated from salvation and from God, and all such were

held in contempt. In i Corinthians 4: 10-13, Paul gives a picture

of how 'those outside of the Jewish nation were regarded by

the Jews.

(301

•

"jesus'brough(the discijeS in contact with

a heathen, whom

they regarded as having nu reason above any of her people, to

expect favor from Him. He would give an. example of how

such a one should be treated. The disciples had thought that•He

dispensed too freely the gifts of His grace. He would show that

His love was not to he circumscribed to race or nation.

"When He said, 'I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of

the house of Israel;', He stated the truth, and in His work -for the

Canaanite:woman

He was fulfilling His commission. This woman

was One of the lost sheep that Israel should have rescued. , It

was 'their appointed

work,

the work which they had neglected,

that Christ was 'doing."'—"The

Desire of figc,s,'

402.

"Jesus received the importunities of thiS representative of

a despised:race in the same manner as the Jews would have'done ;

this was not only to prove the faith and sincerity 'of the woman,-

but also to teach His, disciples a lesson of mercy, that'they might

not be

at a loss how to act in similar cases 'after Jesus' should

leave them and they. could no ,longer go to Him for personal

counsel. Jesus designed that they should be impressed with

the contrast between the cold and heartless manner in which the

Jews would treat such a case, as evinced by His reception.of the

woman, and the compassionate manner in which He would have

them deal with such distress, as manifested by ,His subsequent'

granting of her petition in the healing of her slaughter."—"Spirit

of Prophecy," vol. z,

302.

The journey to the coasts of Tyre and Sidon was between

forty and fifty miles. Our Lord' went there and returned im-

mediately, having

done nothing else, so far as the record shows,

but to heal the woman's daughter. Indeed, this long joUrtWY

may have been takenfor this purpose. This touching story brinks

Jesus yery near to us all as a tender Personal. Helper and Saviour.

And what wonderful evidence is here given of Christ's knowl-

edge, love, and power to help any soul, in any place or condition.

who desires:His help and presence! What He was to this de-

spised woman, so will He be to everyone who realizes 'his own

need, and exercises faith in God.

LESSON 10

FOUR THOUSAND FED; HEALING A BLIND

MAN; JESUS TEACHING THE DISCIPLES

September 5, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Mark 8.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURE: Matt. 15: 32 to 16: 28.

MEMORY VERSE: "What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the

whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8: 36.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 404-418.

[ 31]



•

PLACE: A mountain desert place in the region of Decapolis, near Gergesa,

where the demoniacs were healed; thence across the lake to Dalmanutha,

near Magdala, in Galilee.

PERSONS: Jesus and the disciples; a multitude of four thousand men,

besides women and children; a blind man; Pharisees.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

Jesus and His disciples were now in that part of the country

where the demoAacs of Gergesa had been healed. Once these

people had begged Him to depart from their coasts. Now a desire

was aroused to see Him, and a crowd gathered to

greet Him.

The change of sentiment was no doubt due in large measure to

the testimony of the two men who had been restored to their

right minds. Jesus had said to them, "Go home to thy friends.

and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee."

The gathering of the four thousand to listen to the words of the

great Healer was evidence of the faithfulness of these two men.

Suggestions for Daily Family Study



(

I. Read the "Setting

of the Lesson," and Mark 8: 1-21. Children may

read paragraphs 1-4 of the primary lesson. Drill each day on the memory

verse and its meaning.

Study Questions 1-7, and Note 1. Ask children the questions on this

portion of their lesson. Read the first few paragraphs of the pages assigned

in the Lesson Help.

Study Questions 8-14, and Notes 2 and 3. Children may read para-

graph 4 and answer questions on it in the primary lesson. Read selected

portions from pages 405-409 of the Lesson Help.

Read Mark 8: 22-38. Children may read paragraphs 5-10 of the

primary lesson, and answer 9uestions on the same.

Review the lesson stories by telling what each person said and did.

every member of the family taking part. Locate on the map the places

mentioned. Study Questions 15-19, and Notes 4 and 5.

Review the first half of the lesson by asking questions and reading

notes from the different sets of lessons.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested for the

Preceding

study.

QUESTIONS

i. After the healing of the deaf and dumb man, how large a

multitude followed after Jesus? Mark- 8: I.

What physical need of the people excited His pity? Verse 2.

Why did He not send them to their homes? Verse 3.

What question arose in the minds of the disciples? Verse 4.

Note 1.

What question did Jesus ask His disciples? What was their

reply? Verse 5.

What directions did Jesus then give? What did He do to the

bread? What part of the work was assigned to the disciples?

Verses 6, 7.

How amply were the needs of all supplied?' How many

baskets of fragments were taken up'after the meal? How

many had been proyided with food on this occasion? Verses

8, 9; Matt. 15 : 38.

8, After feeding the multitude, where did Jesus go? Matt. 15:

39. Note 2.

9. Who came to Him at this time? What was the nature of •

their errand? What reply did Jesus give them? Mark 8:

II, 12.

io. On leaving them, where did Jesus go? In preparing to leave,

what had the disciples forgotten? How much• food did they

have with them? Verses 13, 14.

II. Against what did Jesus warn His disciples? What reasoning

did this start among them? Verses 15, 16.

12.

When Jesus perceived their thoughts, what did He say? Of

what remarkable miracles did He remind them? What was

His purPose'in doing this? Verses 17-21.

13.

What did the disciples finally understand? Matt. 16: I I, 12.

Note 3.

14.

Describe the healing of the blind man of Bethsaida. Mark

8: 22-26.

15.

As they were journeying together, what question did Jesus

ask His disciples? What did they reply? Verses 27, 28.

r6. How personal did He then make His question? Who re-

plied? What did he say? What charge did Jesus give them?

Verses 29

;

3o. Note 4.

17.

What did Jesus then make known to them? What rash spirit

was manifested by Peter? In what way did Jesus rebuke

him? Verses 31-33. Note 5.

18.

What principle does Jesus lay down as the foundation of the

Christian life? Verses 34, 35.

19.

What two questions does Jesus then ask? What solemn

warning does He present before us? Verses 36-38.

NOTES

r. The disciples should have recalled at' this time how. on

a former occasion, Jesus, by blessing a few loaves and fisheS, fed

the five thousand. But they did not. "Again the disciples revealed

their unbelief. At Bethsaida they had seen how, with Christ's

blessing, their little store availed for the feeding of the multitude;

yet they did not now bring forward their all, trusting His power

to multiply it for the hungry crowds. Moreover, those whom He

fed at'Bethsaida ,were Jews; these were gentiles and heathen.

Jewish ptejudice was still strong in the hearts of the disciples.

and they answered Jesus, 'Whence can a man satisfy these men

with bread here in the wilderness?'

"—"The Desire of Ages,"

Pk. 404,405.: ••

2. •Nragdala was on the 'west side of the sea, in Galilee itself.

Dalmanutha .(Matk81:

101 Was a village near by; In this vicinity

Jesus had performed many miracles, and lie was. well known. I ie

again meets the cold unbelief of the scribes and Pharisee., in

marked contrast to His welcome among the heathen people.about

Gadara and in the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. He remained, only

a short time in this place.

Jesus no doubt was grieved at this time that He did not

see in the hearts of His disciples greater

evidence That they truly

grasped His divine mission. The shadows of the cross- were

beginning to fall upon His pathway. His disciples had witnessed

many of His mighty works, and their interpretation of what He

had said about the leaven of the Pharisees was evidence that they

but faintly comprehended Him who was daily in their presence.

They failed to grasp and hold the truth that they had with them

the Creator of all things—Him who had only to "speak" and it

"stood fast." Jesus apparently from this time on sought es-

pecially to impress the disciples with His divine Mission, thus

preparing them for the dark scenes of His trial and crucifixion

which were just before Him at Jerusalem.

Jesus approached the question of His divine Sonship with

great caution. He knew that upon this question hung the destiny

of the world; that around this truth the storm of the ages

was already gathering, and would soon burst in relentless

fury.

Satan had assailed the truth of the incarnation, in the wilderness

of temptation, with,

Thou be, the Son of God." Jesus knew

His foe, and the strength of the temptation awaiting the disciples

upon this point. He desired to prepare them for it while He

was still with them.

"From the first, Peter had believed Jesus to be the Messiah.

Many others . . . now doubted that Jesus was the Messiah,

for whom they had looked so long. Many of the disciples who

had ardently expected Jesus to take His place on David's throne,

left Him when they perceived that He had no such intention...

On this day, before they were brought face to face with the

great trial of their faith, the Holy Spirit rested upon them in

power. For a little time their eyes were turned away from 'the

things which are seen,' to behold 'the things which are not seen.'

Beneath the guise of humanity they discerned the .glory of the

Son of God."—"The

Desire of Ages," pp -4n; 412. •

"Satan was trying to discourage JesuS;.and turn Him from

His mission; and Peter, in his blind love, was giving voice to the

temptation. The prince of evil was -the -author o.f the thought.

His instigation was behind that impulsiVe appeal. . . . The words

of Christ were spoken, not to Peter, but to the one who was

trying to separate him from his Redeemer."-4d.,

p. 416.

"Professed Christians yearly expend an immense sum upon

useless and pernicious indulgences, while souls are perishing for

the word of life."—"The

Great Controversy,". p. 475.

[ 34 ]

- LESSON 11

•

THE TRANSFIGURATION

September 12, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matt. 17: 1-9.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Mark 9: 1-13; Luke 9: 27-36.

MEMORY VERSE: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased:

hear ye Him."' Matt. 17: 5.

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 419-425.

PLACE: Probably Mt. Hermon, whose top towers nine thousand feet

above the sea.

PERSONS: Jesus, Moses, Elias [Elijah], Peter, James, and John.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

"Evening is drawing on as Jesus calls to His side three of His

disciples, Peter, James, and John, and leads them across the

fields, and far up a rugged path, to a lonely mountain side. The

Saviour and His disciples have spent the day in traveling and

teaching, and the mountain climb adds to their weariness. .

The light of the setting sun still lingers on the mountain top,

and gilds with its fading glory the path they are traveling. But

soon the light dies out from hill as well as valley, the sun dis-

appears behind the western horizon, and the solitary .travelers

are wrapped in the darkness of night."—"The

Desire of Ages,"

P. 4



•

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of the Lesson." Read the Lesson Scripture.

Children read the primary lesson. Drill on the memory verse each day.

Study Questions 1-9, and the notes. Read pages 419-421 of the. Lesson

Help. Locate Mt. Hermon on the map.

Study Questions 10-14, and read pages 422-425 of the Lesson Help.

Ask questions on the primary lesson.

Tell the lesson as a story, dwelling upon the details, each member

contributing. Study particularly the meaning of the transfiguration, and all

that it represents.

Read the Parallel Scriptures. If convenient, study the junior lesson

and notes. Try the Memory Test in the junior lesson.

Review a portion of the lesson by using questions in senior, youth's,

junior, or primary lesson.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested for the

.preceding study.

QUESTIONS

t. On one occasion, what three disciples did Jesus ask to go with

Him apart from the others? Where did they go? Matt. 17

For what purpose did they go there? Luke 9: 28.

What took place on this occasion? How 'did Jesus appear

before them? Matt. 17:

Who besides Jesus, Peter, James, and John were present' at

this time? What were they doing? Verse

Note

What did Peter propose doing? Verse 4.

What took place while Peter was speaking? What did the

voice from the cloud say? Verse 5. Note 2.

How did the hearing of the voice affect the disciples?

Verse 6.

How did Jesus reassure them? Verse 7.

On opening their eyes and looking about, whom only did they

see? Verse 8.

to. As they were coming down from the mountain, what charge

did Jesus give them? Verse 9.

it. What question did the disciples then ask? Verse To.

12.

What.answer did Jesus make? Verse

13.

Who did Jesus say had already 'come? How had the people

received him? How did He say they would treat the Son of

man? Verse 12.

14, To whom did the disciples then understand Jesus had ref-

'etence ?' Verse 13.

NOTES

1. The statement of Jesus recorded in Matthew 16:28, that

some of those present should not taste of death until they saw

the kingdom of. God come, no doubt referred to the transfigura-

tion. Here was given a representation in miniature of the future

kingdom and home of God's people. Jesus, the -King, was seen

His glory; Moses stood as a representative of the resurrected

satins (Jude 9), and Elijah of those who will be translated at the

coming of Christ. t Thess. 4: 16, 17.

What did Jesus, Elijah, and Moses talk about? "Not the

inauguration of Christ as king, but the decease to be accomplished

at Jerusalem, is the subject of their conference with Jesus.

Bearing the weakness of humanity, and burdened with its sorrow

and, sin, Jesus walked alone in the midst of men. As the darkness

of the coming trial pressed upon Him, He was in loneliness of

spirit, in a world that knew Him not. Even His loved disciples,

Absorbed in their own doubt and sorrow and ambitious hopes, had

not comprehended the mystery of His mission. He had dwelt

amid the love and fellowship of heaven; but in the world that He

had created, He was in solitude. Now heaven had sent its messen-

gers to Jesus; not angels, but men who had endured suffering

and sorrow, and who could sympathize with the Saviour in the'

trial of His earthly life. Moses and Elijah had been colaborers

with Christ. They had shared His longing for the salvation of

men. Moses had pleaded for Israel: 'Yet now, if Thou wilt

forgive their sin ;—and if not, blot me, I pray Thee, out of Thy

hook which Thou hast written.' Elijah had known loneliness

of spirit, as for three years and a half of famine he had borne

the burden of the nation's hatred and its woe. Alone he had

stood for God upon Mount Carmel. Alone he had fled to the

desert in anguish and despair. These men, chosen above every

angel around the throne, had come to commune with Jesus con-

[

36]

cerning the scenes of His suffering, and to comfort Him with the

assurance of the sympathy of heaven. The hope of the world,

the salvation of every human being, was the burden of their

interview."—"The

Desire of Ages," pp. 422-425.

Peter, James, and John heard with their own ears the

voice of God when He spoke from the glory of the transfigura-

tion. With their own eyes they saw Jesus, Moses, and Elijah,

and they heard them conversing together. Nothing.could have been

clearer to human senses ; but Peter says, "We have a more sure

word of prophecy." That is to say, while we may place a reason-

able degree of confidence in what our natural senses, like sight,

hearing, and feeling, tell us, still we have something "more sure"

for our senses can be deceived, but the word of prophecy—the

Bible—never fails.

LESSON 12

HEALING THE DEMONIAC

September 19, 1925

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Mark 9: 14-29.

PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 17: 14-21; Luke 9: 37-45.

MEMORY VERSE: "Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said

unto them, Because of your unbelief." Matt. 17: 19, 20..

LESSON HELP: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 426-431.

PLACE: Probably at the foot of Mt. Hermon.

PERSONS: Jesus and His disciples; the father and his afflicted son; the

scribes and the multitude.

SETTING OF THE LESSON

The entire night has been passed in the mountain of trans-

figuration. "As the sun arose, Jesus and His disciples descended

to the plain. Absorbed in thought, the disciples were awed and

silent. Even Peter had not a word to say. Gladly would they

have lingered in that holy place which had been touched with

the light of heaven, and where the Son of God had manifested

His glory ; but there was work to be done for the people, who

were already searching far and near for Jesus. At the foot of

the mountain a large company had gathered, led hither by the

disciples who had remained behind, but who knew whither Jesus

had resorted."—"The

Desire of Ages;' p. 426.

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Read the "Setting of the Lesson," and Mark 9: 14.29. Drill each day

on the memory verse and its meaning.

Study Questions 1-4, and Note 1. Children may read the primary

lesson. Read pages 426 and 427 of the Lesson Help.

Study Questions 5.10, and Note 2. Ask children questions in the

primary lesson. Read pages 428 and 429 of the Lesson

Study Questions 11-15, and Note 3. Read pages 430 and 431 of the

Lesson Help.

[37

S. Review the lesson story by telling what each person said and did,

every member of the family taking part. Note particularly the reasons

why the disciples could not cast out the evil spirit. Discuss topics in the

junior lesson under the heading, "Questions to Think About."

Review the first half of the lesson by asking questions and reading

notes from any or all of the different sets of lessons.

Review the remaining portion of the lesson as suggested for the

preceding study.

QUESTIONS

Coming to the other disciples at the foot of the mount of

transfiguration, what did Jesus see? What were the scribes

doing? Mark 9: 14.

How did the sight of Jesus affect the people? What did they

do? Verse 15.

What question did Jesus ask the scribes? Verse 16.

What explanation did one of the multitude give? Verses 17,

18. Note 1.

How did Jesus rebuke the unbelief of the people? What did

He ask them to do? Verse 19.

When the boy was brought into the presence of Jesus, what

did the spirit do that controlled him? Verse

20.

Note

What question did Jesus ask the father? What was the

answer? Verse 21.

By what means had this evil spirit tried to destroy the boy?

For what did the father earnestly plead? Verse

22.

How did JeSus seek to strengthen the faith of the father?

Verse 23.

to. What did the father then cry out with tears? Verse

it. Seeing the people running together, how did Jesus rebuke the

evil spirit? Verse 25.

i2. How did the evil spirit respond to the command of Jesus?

In what condition did he seem to leave the boy? Verse 26.

13.

Seeing his weakened condition, what additional assistance did

Jesus render the boy? Verse 27.

14.

When alone with Jesus, what question did His disciples ask

Him? Verse 28.

15.

What explanation of their failure to cast out the evil spirit



did Jesus make?, Verse 29. Note 3.

NOTES

1. "Authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, had been

conferred on the disciples when Jesus sent out the twelve to preach

through Galilee. As they went forth strong in faith, the evil

spirits had obeyed their word. Now in the name of Christ they

commanded the torturing spirit to leave his victim; but the demon

only mocked them by a fresh display of his power. The disciples,

unable to account for their defeat, felt that they were bringing

dishonor upon themselves and their Master. And in the crowd

[

]

there were scribes who made the most of this opportunity to

humiliate them."—"The

Desire of Ages,"

p. 427.

"Again the Prince of Life and the prince of the powers

of darkness had met on the field of battle,—Christ in fulfillment

of His mission to 'preach deliverance to the captives, . . . to set

at liberty them that are bruised,' Satan seeking to hold his victim

under his control. Angels of light and the hosts of evil angels,

unseen, were pressing near to behold the conflict. For a moment,

Jesus permitted the evil spirit to display his power, that the

beholders might comprehend the deliverance about to be wrought.

The multitude looked on with bated breath, the father in an agony

of hope and fear."—Id.,

p. 428.

"Their unbelief, that shut them out from deeper sympathy

with Christ, and the carelessness with which they regarded the

sacred work committed to them, had caused their failure in the

conflict with the powers of darkness.

"The words of Christ pointing to His death, had brought

sadness and doubt. And the selection of the three disciples to

accompany Jesus to the mountain had excited the jealousy of the

nine. Instead of strengthening their faith by prayer and medita-

tion on the words of Christ, they had been dwelling on their

discouragements and personal grievances. In this state of, dark-

ness they had undertaken the conflict with Satan.

"In order to succeed in such a conflict they must come to the

work in a different spirit. Their faith must be strengthened by

fervent prayer and fasting, and humiliation of heart. They must

be emptied of self, and be filled with the Spirit and power of

God. Earnest, persevering supplication to God in faith,—faith

that leads to entire dependence upon God, and unreserved conse-

cration to His work,—can alone avail to bring men the Holy

Spirit's aid in the battle against principalities and powers, the

rulers of the darkness' of this world, and wicked spirits in high

places."—Id.,

P. 430.

LESSON•13

THE REVIEW

September 26, 1925

Suggestions for Daily Family Study

Study Questions 1-4, each member of the family supplying details

of the lesson story. In each day's study, review the memory verse, and

emphasize the practical lessons taught.

Study Questions 5 and 6, members of the family supplying all details

of the two miracles.

Study Questions 7 and 8. Note the special points that should be

emphasized. Drill the children on difficult parts.

Study

Questions 9-11.



Children may relate the stories of the

feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on the sea.. Emphasize

the practical points.

E39

Study Questions 12 and 13. Older Members may review the lesson

on "The Bread of Life." Let the children tell what each one said and

did in the story of the healing of the Syrophcenician's daughter.

Study Questions 14 and 15. Relate the stories in Lesson 10, dwelling-

upon practical lessons. Emphasize the real significance of the experience

on the mount of transfiguration.

Study Question 16. Tell what each one said and did in the story of

the healing of the boy possessed of an evil spirit.

QUESTIONS

What scripture of the Old Testament did Jesus fulfill by

teaching in parables? Lesson I.

Name the parables mentioned in the first lesson. Tell the

•

parable of the fish net, and explain the application Jesus made

of it. Lesson 1.

What power did Jesus manifest in stilling the tempest on the

Sea of Galilee? Lesson

Relate the circumstances in which Jesus exercised His power

over the demoniacs of Gadara. Lesson

What example of strong faith in the Saviour's power to heal

was manifested by an afflicted woman who had been a suf-

ferer for many years? Lesson 3.

On what errand of mercy was Jesus going when this healing

took place? Relate the circumstances briefly. Lesson 3.

What notable miracles of healing are given in Lesson 4?

What was to be the keynote of the message which the chosen

twelve were to carry? • What works of power would follow

its proclamation? What lines of separation would this mes-

sage create? Lesson 5.

How did Jesus say His servants would be received by the

world? Whom only should His people fear? Lesson 6.

Jo. What manifestation of Christ's power illustrates His sym-

pathy in our needs and His willingness to supply them?

Lesson 7.

11.

Relate. Peter's experience in trying to walk on the water.

What caused his failure? Lesson 7.

12.

How did Jesus teach a deeply spiritual lesson from a loaf of

bread? Upon learning the true meaning of Christ's teachings,

what did some of His followers do? Lesson 8.

13.

What miracle did Je§us perform in which He showed that

His ministry was not alone to the Jewish nation? Lesson 9.

14.

Describe the feeding of the four thousand. Against what evil

influence did Jesus warn His disciples? Lesson io.

15.

Describe the event by which the second coming of Christ was

pictured in miniature. Lesson IL

16.

Describe the healing of the boy possessed of an evil spirit.

What was the cause of the disciples' failure to cast out this

evil spirit? Lesson 12.

40]